Efficacy of glucagon in the relief of ureteral colic following treatment by extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy: a randomized double-blind trial

In a prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled study 18 patients were evaluated in regard to the effectiveness of glucagon to treat ureteral colic following extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy. The study groups were comparable. There was no significant difference between glucagon and placebo in relief of pain or in the amount of gravel passed within 48 hours of treatment. We conclude that despite its desirable physiological attributes, glucagon has no demonstrable benefit in the treatment of ureteral colic following extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy.